Facebook
Twitter
RSS![[Masthead]](http://www.marshallnews.com/images/nameplate.png)
RSS
Print
Email link
Respond to editor
Post comment
When Dennis Paul and Jeff Harrelson of Septagon last presented the project cost, it was $3,652,300; but after some negotiations with contractors and recalculations, the base cost of the project is $2,940,622, which is below the project budget of $3,090,000.
To lower the cost, changes were made in three work package areas: masonry restoration, painting and HVAC.
Along with architect Tim Wilson, Harrelson and the masonry contractor inspected the courthouse. They determined that replacing the majority of the sandstone would be cheaper than patching it, which allowed for a reduction of $334,050. The courthouse columns are among the areas to be patched, according to the packet of information provided by Septagon.
The method of removing lead paint was also changed to lower the project's cost by $187,760. Painters will use a wire brush to scrape off lead paint and then paint over it, without using a chemical stripper. This removes about 70 percent of the paint, Harrelson said.
Replacing heat pumps and ducts is not included in the HVAC work package now, which is the reason for the price change of $1,600, Harrelson said.
Committee members discussed which additional work packages to include in the restoration. They decided to approve lightning protection for the building, a gypsum board ceiling in the north and south entrances of the second floor corridor and the remodeling of the first floor restroom to accommodate both men and women.
The preservation committee rejected faux slate roofing material as an alternate to real slate because of a difference in warranties, as well as a cupola atop the courthouse dome. A decision on new bases for the courthouse columns is pending -- the committee would like new bases if they can be made of limestone instead of the original sandstone, but new material must be approved by the state because the courthouse is an historic building.
Removal and repair of the tile on the courthouse's second floor is not part of the restoration project at this time because no bids were received, as the cost of the project is undetermined. The current flooring is vinyl asbestos tile, which covers original ceramic tile that is in an unknown state of repair. Committee Chairman Lucy Fletcher welcomed public sponsorship or donations to fund the floor project.
In addition to Fletcher, committee members Bryan Berlin and Lee Hamilton were present at the meeting. Bill Sleeper, county buildings and ground supervisor, was also present.
Saline County Commissioners will meet with Paul on Thursday, March 12, at 9 a.m. to award bids for the courthouse restoration.
Contact Sydney Stonner at marshallbusiness@socket.net
Related Stories:
39 bids received for courthouse renovation project
http://www.marshallnews.com/story/150745...
Area contractors congregate for county courthouse renovation pre-bid meeting